The Mazda Z-series is a smaller inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine ranging in displacements from 1.3L to 1.6L. They are the evolution of the cast-iron block B-engine.
The Z-engine has 16-valves operated by dual overhead camshafts, which are in turn driven by a timing chain. The block of the 98-02 Z5, Z6 and ZL engine is cast iron same as the earlier B series of engines.
Other Z engines have aluminum alloy block and head, with cast-iron cylinder liners. The block features split upper and lower block assembly for added strength and rigidity, special long intake manifold for added torque, S-VT continuous variable valve timing, and a stainless steel 4:1 exhaust header.
As of 2011, Mazda will cease to develop the Z-engine, to be replaced by the SkyActiv P-engine. At this time, Ford will be the only manufacturer to develop and use the Mazda Z and L-engine designs.
Mazda Z5 Engine
The 1.5 L (1489 cc, 92 hp) Z5-DE was used in the 1995-1998 Mazda Protegé, Mazda Lantis (Astina) and in Mazda Familia Neo (1994–1997). Bore and stroke were 75.3 mm (3.0 in) and 83.6 mm (3.3 in).
The Z5 engine was the first iteration for all newer Z-series lines of Mazda engines. The Z series of engine are totally new design but based on B-series. The block, block internals and oil-pan are similar to the B series of engines but the DOHC head is a completely new design.
The block is case iron, the oil-pan is a 2-piece design with an upper aluminum and lower stamped steel, piston oil squirters are standard. The cylinder head was a compact design with round intake and exhaust ports. JDM versions produce 97 hp (72 kW) and 110 hp (82 kW).
Mazda ZJ Engines
The 1.3 L (1348 cc) ZJ (74x78.4 mm) is available with either continuous cam-phasing VVT ZJ-VE (91 hp) or a high-efficiency Miller cycle ZJ-VEM (90 hp).
[b}Mazda ZY Engines[/b]
1.5 L (1498 cc, 111 hp) ZY-VE (78x78.4 mm)
Mazda ZL Engines
1.5 L (1498 cc, 130 hp) ZL-VE (78x78.4 mm) The 1.5L ZL-VE makes more power than the slightly larger 1.6L Z6/M-DE its due to variable valve timing on the intake cam (S-VT).
Mazda Z6/M Engines
1.6 L (1598 cc, 105 hp) ZM-DE (78x83.6 mm) The ZM engine is also known as the Z6, it has an identical bore, yet slightly longer stroke than the ZL as well as a revised head with round intake and exhaust ports. It has exactly the same bore and stroke as the previous generation B6.
The 1.5 L (1498 cc, 130 hp) ZL-VE and 1.6 L (1598 cc, 105 hp) ZM-DE are closely related engines with an equal bore (78mm) and share some major parts. The ZL has a stroke of 78.4 mm whilst the ZM has 83.6 mm.
